Ukraine and Russia have completed a significant prisoner exchange, with 189 Ukrainians returning home in exchange for 150 Russian captives. The swap, one of the largest since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, was facilitated by the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It underscores the ongoing human cost of the conflict and the intense negotiations required to achieve such agreements.
Emotional Reunions in Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the operation, highlighting the return of defenders from key battles, including those who held the Azovstal steel plant in Mariupol, the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, and Snake Island. Among the freed Ukrainians were soldiers, border guards, National Guardsmen, Navy servicemen, and two civilians who had been captured in Mariupol. Many had endured over two and a half years in captivity.
Freed prisoners were reunited with loved ones in northern Ukraine, where emotional scenes unfolded. Alina, waiting for her husband Oleksandr, captured in 2022 while defending Mariupol, expressed relief and joy through tears: “It’s been so difficult. I just want to see him.” Released soldier Anatoliy, also captured in Mariupol, shared his feelings: “Thank God this day has come. We’re home. Now we’re going to support Ukraine with everything we’ve got.”
Details of the Exchange
The Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War reported that the release included:
- 87 personnel from the Armed Forces of Ukraine (including 17 from territorial defence units),
- 43 National Guard members,
- 33 border guards,
- 24 Navy servicemen,
- and two civilians.
Of the returned prisoners, 173 were enlisted personnel or sergeants, and 14 were officers. Many suffered from chronic illnesses, severe injuries, or the aftereffects of mine blasts, underscoring the harsh conditions they faced in captivity.
On the Russian side, freed soldiers were transported to Belarus, where they received medical treatment and were allowed to contact their families. Tatyana Moskalkova, Russia’s human rights commissioner, said the soldiers would soon reunite with their families and celebrate the New Year at home.
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A Broader Context
This was the 59th prisoner exchange since the onset of the war, marking one of the largest operations conducted by the Ukrainian Coordination Headquarters. Since the full-scale invasion, 3,956 Ukrainians have been returned from Russian captivity, with 1,358 of those freed in 2024 alone.
Despite these successes, thousands of Ukrainians remain in Russian captivity. Estimates suggest over 8,000 Ukrainian prisoners of war are held by Russia, though official numbers remain undisclosed. Zelenskyy reaffirmed Ukraine’s commitment to freeing all captives, stating: “We are working to free everyone from Russian captivity. This is our goal. We do not forget anyone.”
Historical Significance of Freed Defenders
The exchange included defenders from some of the war’s most intense battles:
- Azovstal Steel Plant: Ukrainian forces in Mariupol held out for months before surrendering in May 2022. Eleven members of the 12th Special Forces Azov Brigade, which defended the plant, were among those released.
- Chernobyl: Russian forces captured the nuclear power plant early in the invasion but later relinquished control.
- Snake Island: A strategic Black Sea outpost where Ukrainian defenders became symbols of resistance, famously refusing Russian demands to surrender before being captured and later exchanged.
Challenges in Negotiations
Officials in Kyiv have acknowledged that securing prisoner exchanges has become increasingly challenging, particularly as the conflict continues and battlefield dynamics shift. Russia’s increasing demands and strategic considerations complicate negotiations.
A Glimpse of Relief Amid Ongoing Conflict
For the families of the 189 freed Ukrainians, the exchange brings an end to months, and in some cases years, of uncertainty. However, the plight of thousands of others remains unresolved. The exchange is a reminder of the enduring human cost of the conflict and the relentless efforts required to bring captives home.
As Ukraine continues its fight for sovereignty, the return of its defenders symbolises resilience and a commitment to leave no one behind. For now, the reunited families celebrate their loved ones’ return, even as the broader struggle persists.
Image source: Zelenskyy Telegram
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